Extrinsic Aging: What it Is and What You Can Do About It

TGIF y’all!!! On Monday, we talked about Intrinsic Aging, or aging from within. Today, we’re going to discuss Extrinsic Aging, or aging from the enviornment.

Extrinsic Aging refers to aging to the skin that is caused by the environment- UVA/UVB rays, pollution, smoke, and damage/trauma to the skin.

90% of Aging in the Skin is Photoaging

90% of aging that we see on the surface of the skin comes from UVA/UVB damage! This is a fantastic fact because it puts YOU in the driver’s seat. This kind of aging can be prevented! Wearing a broad spectrum SPF of at least 30 every day, staying in the shade, avoiding full sun between the hours of 11 and 4, and wearing protective clothing and hats. For body, I love Pacifica’s SPF 30 Probiotic Sunscreen.

Pollutants, Irritants and Environmental Damage

If you live in an urban environment, this is where using products that pull dirt and debris from the skin and promote microcirculation comes in. These types of products include active charcoal cleansers and masks, such as the Daily Superfoliant from Dermalogica. (Don’t use these every day!) Cleansing the skin thoroughly each night, even if you live in a rural area, will help the skin to breathe by lightly exfoliating dead skin cells resting on the surface of the skin. Skin that looks aged often looks sallow or yellow or even gray. This is due to a lack of oxygen- the skin is literally being “smothered”. You can use serums that contain mild exfoliants such as BHA (salicylic acid) which stimulate the skin, promoting microcirculation! I love No 7 Early Defense Glow Activating Serum.

Treat UV Damage Under the Surface of the Skin

This is where laser treatments are SO beneficial. Broad Band Light, or BBL, can actually re-program the RNA in the skin’s DNA, telling the genes to express in a pattern similar to the pattern of youth. laser treatments can also treat pigmentation (reds and browns) under the surface of the skin, revealing a clearer, brighter and more youthful complexion.